I’m an award-winning Canadian journalist and editor based in Australia.

I write stories about New Zealand and Australia that resonate with North American audiences.

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Best known for my adventure and ethical travel journalism, I’ve covered everything from heli-fishing in the Australian outback for The Toronto Star, to losing toenails in New Zealand’s mountains for Outside.

Simply put: I like a challenge. One of my favourites? Synthesizing complex information and making it relevant, relatable and readable. That’s why I also write about ecommerce, science, education, health and personal finance for editorial clients, non-profit organizations and brands. But my favourite stories to write are about the intersection of science, conservation and tourism.

As a regional specialist in Aotearoa (NZ) and Australia, I’m Lonely Planet’s Destination Editor for Oceania; a columnist for the New Zealand Herald’s travel section; and the Contributing Editor of Verge Magazine. I’ve also co-authored several guidebooks.

In 2021, I won Gold in the Society of American Travel Writers Foundation Lowell Thomas Awards, considered the most prestigious in travel journalism. My writing has also been recognized by TMAC, ASTW, SATW and the Ontario Press Council.

Testimonials

“As an editor, Jessica is talented and thoughtful, and knew how to coax the most out of me. As a writer, I knew I could always count on her to complete an assignment with accuracy and depth, while weaving in her own personal voice and experience.”

Kaelyn Lynch
Assistant Editor, Outside

“When assigning stories to Jessica, I’m confident she’ll deliver (even under tight deadlines) and make my job a breeze. I was impressed by both her meticulousness and her engaging writing style. I’ve worked with many freelancers over the years, and she’s one of the standouts.”

Wing Sze Tang
Editor, wingszetang.com

“Jessica is a pro — a journalist who knows how to research, write, file and edit a story and provide the images needed to get good play. She's a joy to work with.”

Jennifer Bain
Editor, The Toronto Star

Writing notes on a hilltop overlooking the city in Siberia
 

You’ll find my byline in:

  • The Toronto Star

  • The Globe and Mail

  • Air Canada’s enRoute

  • Chatelaine

  • Condé Nast Traveler

  • Smithsonian

  • Outside

  • USA Today

  • Reader’s Digest

  • TIME

  • BBC

  • Lonely Planet

  • Business Insider

  • The New Zealand Herald

  • Australian Women’s Weekly

Contact Jess